Modules (n): Modules are unique to Conn and are project-based learning units that are based on the standard course of study. From 2:30-3:30 each day, students are engaged in grade level specific classes that usually focus on science skills. Each module is broken into 3 week segments that loosely align with the quarterly calendar. The modules have active learning and technology integrated through them with the use of special technologies like GPS units, the digital TV studio, podcasts, blogs, and smart boards. During the course of the unit, guest speakers are invited into the classroom to speak about the concept the students are learning. At least once each quarter, the students will go on an excursion where the students can see this concept in the real-world.
Kindergarten Example: Bakery Module- students learn what bakers do and how they make different types of breads and pasteries. Students may have a parent that works at a local bakery come and speak with them and they will go out and visit Panera Bread to learn more specific details about baking. At the end of the unit, the students create and make their own baked items for a bake sale that they invite classes from around the school to attend. 3rd Grade Example: Landforms- students learn about how longitude and latitude are used to create exact location. Students study grids and maps and analyze how the land is formed based on its location on Earth. Student have an expert speaker come and talk to them about GPS units and how they use satellites to give a persons exact location. From that point, students learn about GPS and will go on a "Geocache" or digital scavenger hunt and use the GPS units around Oakwood Cemetary to find answers to riddles. 4th Grade Example:
5th grade Example: Media Madness- students learn to use their understanding of bias to help make generalizations about the commerical, ads, and other propaganda that invade their world daily. Students have an advertising executive come and speak to them about various techniques that the media uses to try and persuade them to want, believe or buy something. Students go on an excursion to Capstrat Inc. where they learn more about the creation of ads and how to properly use communication to get your point across. At then end of the unit, the students create a multi-media presentation demonstrating their knowledge of propaganda techniques and proper public speaking skills.
Kindergarten Example:
Bakery Module- students learn what bakers do and how they make different types of breads and pasteries. Students may have a parent that works at a local bakery come and speak with them and they will go out and visit Panera Bread to learn more specific details about baking. At the end of the unit, the students create and make their own baked items for a bake sale that they invite classes from around the school to attend.
3rd Grade Example:
Landforms- students learn about how longitude and latitude are used to create exact location. Students study grids and maps and analyze how the land is formed based on its location on Earth. Student have an expert speaker come and talk to them about GPS units and how they use satellites to give a persons exact location. From that point, students learn about GPS and will go on a "Geocache" or digital scavenger hunt and use the GPS units around Oakwood Cemetary to find answers to riddles.
4th Grade Example:
5th grade Example:
Media Madness- students learn to use their understanding of bias to help make generalizations about the commerical, ads, and other propaganda that invade their world daily. Students have an advertising executive come and speak to them about various techniques that the media uses to try and persuade them to want, believe or buy something. Students go on an excursion to Capstrat Inc. where they learn more about the creation of ads and how to properly use communication to get your point across. At then end of the unit, the students create a multi-media presentation demonstrating their knowledge of propaganda techniques and proper public speaking skills.